The Pheu Thai party will convene tomorrow to select its new leader, replacing former prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who resigned last week after being ousted from the premiership.
The leadership decision comes at a critical moment, as a general election approaches and the party faces its lowest popularity in its political history. The new leader will need to be able to steer the party effectively and restore public confidence.
Four potential candidates are rumoured to be competing for the top party seat. They are veteran politician Chaturon Chaisang, 69, former Defence Minister Suthin Klungsang, 64, former Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, 50 and Dr Cholnan Srikaew, 64, a former party leader. Chaturon and Julapun have emerged as frontrunners, reflecting contrasting strategic directions for the party.
Chaturon is an experienced politician and long-time advocate for democratic ideals, while Julapun is seen as a “middle-generation” figure, capable of bridging the gap between older and younger party members.
Chaturon’s major strength lies in his clear ideological stance as a pro-democracy advocate. Support from several party MPs suggests a desire to return the party to its ideological roots.
Electing Chaturon could signal a commitment to restoring the party’s image and regaining the trust of its traditional support base.
In contrast, Julapun represents the younger-to-middle generation of politicians, with practical experience in government management.
As former Deputy Finance Minister, he has experience in economic administration and Julapun’s strength lies in his ability to act as a bridge between younger MPs and senior party figures.
His election could reflect Pheu Thai’s desire for more effective internal management and a pragmatic approach, which combines the wisdom of senior politicians with fresh ideas, preparing the party to operate as a leading government faction.
Meanwhile, Suthin is being watched as a potential dark horse, with parliamentary experience that could make him a compromise candidate, if consensus cannot be reached between the two main factions.
There have been were rumours that he would resign from the party and form a new one. He has, however, dismissed these claims, saying they were politically motivated to tarnish his loyalty to Pheu Thai and has insisted that he will remain with the party to contest the next general election.
Dr Cholnan, also a former Public Health Minister, could signal stability and clarity, if elected as party leader for the second time.
He knows the internal workings of the party and has focused on healthcare and rural development, areas that align with the party’s populist base.
At a time when Pheu Thai needs to solidify its identity and reconnect with grassroots supporters, his leadership could provide a safe and stabilising anchor.
In the general election, tentatively scheduled for April next year, Pheu Thai will also have to announce its prime ministerial candidates.
It is expected that some of the four contenders for the leadership may be included on the list.
Tomorrow’s election will determine the party’s direction. Will Pheu Thai return to its ideological roots in an attempt to rebuild voter trust?
The outcome will shape the party’s trajectory for years to come.
